News-Gazette, Town Hall #9: Foster Greater Racial Unity
Urbana, IL (News-Gazette)—Asks UI Department of Aerospace Engineering communications coordinator DEBRA LEVEY LARSON, president of Urbana Pops Orchestra and long-time Urbana resident: What initiatives or programs do you envision for Urbana that could foster greater racial unity and understanding within our community?
“To foster racial unity, we must deepen our understanding, respect, and connections to one another and our diverse cultures. According to the 2023 Census, Urbana is a vibrant community where 0.1% of residents are Native American, 7.8% identify as two or more races, 9.3% are Latino, 14.5% are Asian, 16.9% are African American, and 55% are White.
“Our diversity shines through programs like Black History Month, the Lunar New Year Festival, Juneteenth, MLK Jettie Rhodes Day, Hispanic Heritage Month, New American Welcome Center Welcoming Week, and Riggs Oktoberfest.
“One initiative I would expand is Trees and Lights from Around the World, a community-driven project that showcases unity through storefront displays, holiday carols, Jazz Combo performances by the Urbana High School Music Program, and collaborations with women-owned, Hispanic-owned, Asian-owned, and Black-owned businesses. This celebration embodies love, joy, and acceptance, featuring displays of Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, and global traditions.
“I commend the Urbana Arts and Culture Program, Urbana School District, Urbana Park District, Urbana Free Library, local partners, businesses, and volunteers for making these events possible.
“As mayor, I will integrate racial equity into all city initiatives—housing, safety, transportation, health, and the environment—through our partnership with the Government Alliance on Racial Equity (GARE). I will establish a Racial Unity Task Force to foster collaboration and inclusion.
“Urbana must be safe and connected, ensuring equitable access to grocery stores, healthcare, and transportation.
“As the Urbana Park District says: You Belong Here!”
—ANNIE ADAMS
